Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)

Quick Facts

Can grow north of the Arctic Circle

Preferred wood for bassoons

An invasive species in New York State

About

The Norway maple is an invasive species in New York State. It was introduced to substitute the American elm which had significant decrease in population due to Dutch elm disease. The roots of the Norway maple grow close to the surface and absorb water normally used by native plants. The species is also very pollution tolerant. The leaves can be a deep purple or green, their shape is triangular with 5-7 pointed lobes. They produce two-winged samaras which mature in late summer. It’s bark is gray-brown and slightly corky and ridged. The biggest Norway maple in New York State stands at 90 feet and is located in Schoharie County.